In the US Navy, I learned about honor, courage, commitment and sexism

[Tony]

(CNN) Over more than three years as a Navy sailor, I bore a burden. I served during a time when the number of women in the armed forces was growing, but still saw firsthand the obstacles that exist for us as we serve our country and make history every day. Ten years removed from my time in active duty, those obstacles -- and my story -- are hardly relics of the past.